Ideas for NAEYC’s Week of the Young Child
The Week of the Young Child (WOYC) was created by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). NAEYC, the largest professional organization dedicated to early childhood education, established this annual celebration to recognize the importance of early learning, young children, their families, and the educators who support them. The WOYC highlights the critical importance of high-quality early childhood education and raises awareness about the critical role of early years in a child’s development.
Our office has gathered resources to assist early childhood educators as they prepare for this special week. By providing information and materials, we aim to support educators in planning meaningful and developmentally appropriate activities that celebrate young learners. Our goal is to make this process as smooth as possible by offering accessible, engaging ideas that align with best practices in early childhood education. We hope that these resources inspire and support educators in creating memorable experiences for the children in their care!
Music Monday
Music touches the hearts and souls of everyone—it is a universal language that transcends time, space, and culture. While it holds deep personal meaning for individuals, it also serves as a powerful connection between people. In a preschool classroom, music can be woven into daily routines, whether playing softly in the background during playtime or being used for movement and dance activities. However it is incorporated, it is essential to select songs that reflect the diverse cultures of the children and celebrate inclusivity in a positive way. Music engages the whole child—body, mind, and soul—stimulating their thinking, inspiring creativity, and fostering a sense of belonging. It unites us while honoring our individuality, opening doors to learning and allowing children to explore the world through sound and rhythm.
Tasty Tuesday
On Tasty Tuesday, children are encouraged to explore nutritious foods and develop healthy eating habits. This day invites children, families, and educators to come together in discovering a variety of healthy food choices while participating in engaging activities focused on nutrition and wellness. As children try new foods and learn about the importance of balanced nutrition, they gain a deeper understanding of how healthy choices positively impact their overall well-being. This enjoyable and educational experience not only promotes physical health but also supports cognitive development, empowering children to make informed and positive decisions for both their bodies and minds.
Work Together Wednesday
On “Work Together Wednesday,” friends are encouraged to work cooperatively to build, solve problems, and create. By working in teams toward a common goal, children develop social skills, math and science concepts, and early literacy skills as well. Helping children develop these 21st-century skills, not only prepares them for life beyond Pre-K, but it also helps build confidence and a strong classroom community.
Artsy Thursday
When it comes to the arts, creative expression serves as a fundamental building block in early childhood development. Through music, visual arts, dance, and dramatic play, young children develop crucial cognitive, motor, and social-emotional skills while finding joy in self-expression. Research consistently shows that early exposure to the arts enhances children’s problem-solving abilities, boosts language development, and nurtures emotional intelligence – making arts education not just enriching, but essential for holistic early childhood development.
Family Friday
“Family Friday” focuses on engaging families to support younger learners. Exploring science as a family offers numerous benefits for children. It fosters curiosity, strengthens family bonds, and promotes critical thinking skills. Engaging in hands-on activities builds early STEM foundations, boosts language development, and encourages a positive attitude toward learning. Completing experiments together helps children feel accomplished and confident while sparking a lifelong love of discovery. These shared experiences support intellectual growth and create lasting memories and deeper connections with the world around them.
